The Tech Behemoths Leading the Pack
Leading the pack are Apple, Microsoft, Google parent Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta Platforms, which collectively form this powerful group. In addition, two new entrants, Nvidia and Tesla, have joined their ranks. Fuelled by the hype surrounding artificial intelligence, their combined market capitalization has surged 60% this year to an astounding $11 trillion.
For perspective, this figure is nearly triple the size of Germany’s economy, which stood at just above $4 trillion in 2022, according to the World Bank.
Record-breaking Valuations and CEO Fortunes
The valuations of these tech giants are breaking records. Apple became the first-ever company to achieve a $3 trillion valuation just last week. This staggering accomplishment reflects the success of their high-tech products such as the iPhone and iPad, which are supported by a robust ecosystem of services and offerings.
In the near future, Microsoft is expected to follow suit, potentially becoming the next mega-cap tech stock to reach a $3 trillion valuation, according to Morgan Stanley.
Among the newcomers, Nvidia has made an unprecedented mark by surging nearly 200% this year, making it a part of the trillion-dollar market-cap club for the first time in history. This spike in valuation has also propelled CEO Jensen Huang into the ranks of the world’s richest individuals, with a net worth of $39.2 billion.
Tesla, owned by Elon Musk, has experienced a blistering 126% rally in its stock this year. The surge can be attributed to increased demand for electric vehicles, supported by price cuts, charging-tech deals with competitors Ford and GM, and the fervor surrounding artificial intelligence.
The Role of AI and Cautionary Outlooks
Saxo Bank suggests that one way for investors to gain exposure to AI is through the “Magnificent Seven.” These companies play crucial roles in the development and application of AI technologies, although it is important to note that AI is not their sole earnings driver.
Morgan Stanley’s top stock picker, Mike Wilson, acknowledges the AI hype but also warns about the high chances of the US economy tipping into recession. Weak economic growth, he cautions, has the potential to put an end to the equity rally of 2023.